How To Take Care Of Your Skin In Humid Weather?

Tired of perspiring excessively during the summer months? Does your skin get tired even before the day starts? Are the heat and humidity taking over your life? If the answer is yes, then it’s high time you did something about it.

Wondering how to take care of skin in humid weather?

Worry not, the best tips for taking good care of your skin have been talked about in the paragraphs below. Go ahead and read on!

1. Wash Your Face

The first trick to keep your skin beautiful and soft this summer is by cleansing your face three times a day. Use a product that suits your skin. Also, remember to wash your face with cold water before you proceed with the face wash. This is because direct contact with heated skin isn’t considered very healthy. What cleansers do is that they remove clogged impurities, balance excess oil and sweat, and protect your skin from breakouts or acne. A good face massage while cleansing leaves the skin fresh and beautiful.

2. Use Deodorant

Humid weather leads to a whole lot of sweating, especially around the armpits and the neck region. However, you can always avoid this by using a fresh smelling deodorant. Not only will you prevent bad odour, but also stay fresh and clean at all times. Working professionals and college going students should definitely get hold of a good deodorant right away. It will definitely take better care of your skin this summer.

3. Weekly Facials

Your skin tends to get tanned very easily during this time. Not just that, it tends to collect more dirt, oil, and pollution. You can, however, take care of this problem by getting weekly facials done. No, you don’t have to hit the parlour! Just follow this amazing facial routine at home and you’ll definitely feel a difference in your skin. It takes only 20 to 25 minutes and promises to enhance your complexion.

Wash your face first. Splash some cold water a couple of times. Use a face wash if you like.

Exfoliator:

A good scrub is something you should purchase online. If you don’t have one at home right now, that’s okay! Use lemon instead. Cut one into two halves and scrub all over your face for about two minutes. Let it sink in for another minute, after which you can splash some cold water.

Another alternative is sour curd. The procedure for this is slightly different, however. Scoop out a spoon of curd (yogurt) and apply all over your face like you do with facial creams. Let it stay for a minute or so. When you start to get that dry feeling, rub it off using your fingers. This is where you are literally scrubbing off the dirt.

Face Massage:

You don’t have to purchase something fancy from the cosmetics store for this. Expensive products aren’t the only way to good looks. Try some face oil instead, like olive or coconut oil. To massage like a pro, start off with your cheeks first. Massage in a clockwise motion. After a minute or so, move towards your eyes and continue in the same direction. Massage your forehead and the frown line next. Repeat this twice to maximize the results.

Face Pack:

Finally, it’s time to use a face pack. See what suits your skin best while picking one. If you have dry skin, go for a banana and honey face pack. If it’s oily, try some orange peel and yogurt. If you are looking for a lighter complexion, use fullers earth with rose water.

Moisturize:

Your skin care for humid weather doesn’t finish until you moisturize your skin. Make sure your hands are clean before you start applying. Spread the cream equally all over your face and neck. Massage gently. Your facial is now done.

4. Prevent Acne

It is very important to know how to prevent acne, pimples and breakouts during summers. The condition tends to get worse when humidity increases. The best way you can prevent this is to simply avoid touching your skin with your fingers. Whenever you want to wipe your face, use wet wipes instead. Or you can even dip a piece of cotton in rose water and massage all over the face. You should also wash your face with lukewarm water at times, since it tends to open up the pores. Also, know the oily sections of your skin and refrain from using a moisturizer in those areas. That will definitely prevent breakouts during hot and humid weather.

Foods To Eat During Summer/Humid Weather

Here is a list of foods you should be eating during summer to keep your skin hydrated, balanced and glowing.

1. Black Plum

Plums are delicious, healthy and super hydrating. They contain Vitamin C and are also known for boosting the absorption of iron in the body.

2. Litchis

Litchis are not just used for making scrumptious teas, ice creams, and other cold drinks. They also improve immunity, boost digestion and contain anti-fungal properties as well.

3. Mangoes

There is no better way to beat the heat and humidity during summer than having some cold mangoes brought out straight from the fridge. They fight cancer, reduce cholesterol, and eliminate pimples as well.

4. Watermelons

Watermelons are not only sweet but also hydrating. They are very low in calories, full of antioxidants and serve you with several nitrifying properties.

5. Cucumber

Cucumber is excellent for those who love to go on a detox diet once in a while. It comes with refreshing benefits that will relax your body, mind, and soul. It opens the pores of your skin and also banishes thigh cellulite.

5 OF THE BEST SUMMER SKINCARE TIPS

June has arrived and we are ready to hit the beach, pool, lake – basically any body of water that will have us. But first, skincare. We are sharing shares these tips for soaking up rays and keeping your skin looking silky smooth and protected.

AWS (ALWAYS WEAR SPF)

We know we don’t have to even explain why to you at this point but, as a reminder, aside from painful sunburn, one in five American will develop skin cancer in the course of a lifetime. Always remember to apply a “shot glass full” of your favourite sunscreen every 2-3 hours or immediately after swimming

DON’T FORGET YOUR LIPS AND SCALP

When it comes to putting SPF on your face and body, you’re probably already a pro. But what about those forgotten areas like your lips and scalp? If you’ve ever had a scalp burn.

For the scalp, we love the easy application of a spray sunscreen. You can also use a mineral powder SPF.

KEEP EYE CREAM IN THE FRIDGE

There’s nothing more refreshing than a cooling eye cream straight from your refrigerator. You can also try cooling your moisturiser, or even a body spray!

DON’T SCRATCH BUG BITES

Often, the price to pay for connecting with mother nature is a souvenir of itchy bug bites. We know it’s tempting but (just like your mother told you) scratching makes bug bites worse and can even cause scarring! Instead, try keeping an anti-itch cream in your purse for any surprise insect attacks.

PREVENT RAZOR BUMPS AND BURNS

Since you’re probably shaving the most during the warm summer months, it’s important to always prepare your skin properly for the sometimes-harsh process of shaving. Here’s are a few shaving specific tips:

– Use a body scrub to gently exfoliate your skin before you start shaving.
– Swap out dull blades for clean, sharp razors.
– Apply a generous amount of shaving cream.
– Shave with the grain (i.e. the direction that the hair is growing).
– Moisturise liberally after you get out of the shower.

Drashti Dhami’s Beauty Secrets

Television actress Drashti Dhami is one of the highest-paid actresses in the small screen industry. She is also one of the most liked personalities when it comes to the television industry. The actress has been blessed with gorgeous skin and hair, which is also the reason why she has made it to the list of 50 Sexiest Asian Women multiple times, starting from 2012 to the year 2015. If you have always wondered what makes Drashti’s skin radiant and her long  hair strong and lustrous, we share with you some of Drashti Dhami’s skincare and haircare secrets. 

Apart from the fact that Drashti makes sure she gets 8 hours of sleep and follows a proper diet plan, she takes care of her skin with a simple skincare regime. Her skincare regime is pretty simple. She thoroughly follows the CTM (cleanse, tone and moisturize) routine. She also exfoliates her skin and indulges in facials to keep her skin glowing and to prevent the early signs of ageing.
She loves to pamper herself, so she indulges in body massage once in ever month. Though she does not like using too many face packs, she likes to use a homemade natural toner for her skin. Yes, Drashti uses a natural homemade toner to stay away from the readily available toner with loads of alcohol. Another homemade remedy she uses makes her lips rosy pink. The actress uses a natural lip balm made with strawberries to keep her lips soft and rosy pink.

The secret to Drashti’s beautiful hair is that she uses oil treatments to massage her hair and scalp. She believes in using essential oil for her hair. A good hair massage not only relieves tension but also helps to increase the blood circulation and promote hair growth.

The 5 Spring Skin Changes to Make In the New Season

Our Allure motto? New season, new skin-care regimen. And since spring skin is probably on your mind, given that the official start to the season is just around the corner. There's no better time than the present to start prepping your complexion for the impending rising temps and sticky, heavy humidity that lies ahead. Here are the five top tips to help stave off vernal skin-related freak-outs.

Start scrubbing.

Stretch Marks: How to Minimize Appearance

Season-long buildup on the skin—of dead skin cells, leftover product, and environmental toxins—which is why we recommend exfoliating in the new season. "Light micro-dermabrasion, followed by a moisturizing mask, will help get rid of that old dead, winter skin." To keep skin smooth and hydrated, it is recommended masking up to three times a week.

Lighten your load.

Gone are the days of duck boots, fur-lined hoods, and loading up your visage with thick creams and serums to help fight off the wicked winter wind. Come spring, it's time to swap out your heavy formulas for lighter lotions. "While ingredients like petrolatum help protect the skin, certain products can weigh you down especially in humid weather." Which is why we recommend an oil-free moisturizer.

 

Apply (and re-apply) sunscreen.

After a months spent bundled up in beanies and parkas, slathering on sun protection is a must once temps start to rise. "Springtime is actually a high risk time for sunburns and sun damage." Although the weather is warmer, it's still so mild you might not feel how strong the sun is. Apply sunscreen every morning and reapply it again before any outdoor activity during the day.

 

Add an eye cream.

Because the sun's more prominent in the spring, people are more prone to squinting. To combat the fine lines and wrinkles that can form around the eyes, find an eye cream with a high concentration of antioxidants and peptides. The duo work to both ward-off the collagen-destroying effects of UVA rays, and plump up the fine lines and wrinkles that have already formed.

16 Tips to Take Care of Your Dry Lips in Winter

Who don’t feel dry lips in winter? Probably all.

The lip skin is very thin, more sensitive, has no oil/sweating glands and no hairy coverage that can protect the lips from the cruel weather.
So, the lips get harmed with a slightly harsh touch. And winter is the biggest worse condition to meet up the lips with dry, chapped, flaky, cracked, painful, itchy or sore state. Of course, there are other reasons to cause dry lips, including dehydration, licking lips, excessive use of chemical products, etc.
Therefore, it is a dream of everyone belonging to smooth, soft and moisturized lips in cold days of winter. Your expectation will be true if you become careful of your lips before starting winter.
For getting baby soft lips, you need to take preventive measures first. Prevention is better than treating dry lips.
If you don’t take care of your lips in time, more serious conditions may be fallen into your lips, like bleeding.
Lips not only symbolize your beauty but also it talks about your healthy appearance. The nice looking lips boost up your confidence, while the dry, cracked lips lose your attractiveness and self dignity.

That’s why; to take care of your dry lips in winter is an urgent routine.
Now let’s see.

Some Simple Tips to Take Care of Your Dry Lips in Winter

The key factors of treating chapping lips are covering the entire body with a warm dress, manage your surrounding environments (both outside and inside) and using preventive lip moisturizers. Then, you can blow your nourishing smile throughout the winter.

Okay, now let me tell the tips to take care of your dry lips in winter.

1. Go Outside Less

If not more urgent, stay at home. It prevents the exposure to the dry air and bitterly cold wind. Take exercise while staying inside. Don’t forget to use a natural lip balm always. Switch on the humidifier. It will keep the indoor air moist.

2. Scrub Your Lips Once a Week

Exfoliating is a good idea to remove the dry, dead or chapped skin cells. After exfoliating, the lips look fresher and evener. You must moisturize your lips after scrubbing. Use the mixer of honey and brown sugar as a natural exfoliator. You can also use any good readymade scrub, toothbrush or washcloth to exfoliate the lips. And don’t scrub more than twice a week.
“Don’t exfoliate. It can cause further damage to chapped lips. Instead, apply plenty of balm or ointment and turn on the humidifier.”

3. Use Moisturizing Lipstick for Dry Lips

Use moisturizing lip balm containing immobile colorful tint. If you cannot walk without lipstick, apply the moisturizing based lip color. Or moisturize your lips first with an ointment, then wear your favorite lipstick. At anyhow, you cannot sleep with lipstick. After removing the lip makeup, use a moisturizer to soften the lips through the night. Use makeup remover rich in natural moisturizer to get rid of your lipstick.
 

4. Take Right Diet and Sufficient Water

Dehydration is a common reason to dry out the skin, whether it is winter or summer. Take lots of water daily (at least 8 glasses) and fluid rich diets to hydrate and protect the skin from inside.
Take some vitamins. Skim milk, Swiss cheese, red meat, silken tofu, fortified cereals, eggs, etc. contain vitamin B. It helps to retain the moisturizer to the skin. Vitamin A helps to maintain and repair the skin tissue. Take milk products, apricots, carrots, etc. rich in Vitamin A. Aging also causes dry lips. Vitamin A helps a lot to repair dry lips of aging people. Take the diets having vitamin C. It increases the collagen production to make the lips suppler and fuller. Vitamin C also repairs the tissue by protecting the skin from the sunburn.  Eat various vegetables and citrus fruits rich in vitamin C. Vitamin E evens out the aging signs, like fine lines or wrinkles. Nuts, eggs, leafy vegetables, etc. have Vitamin E.
Avoid some foods, like spicy, hot or salty items. Because these foods compel the tongue frequently to touch the lips that are very harmful to dry out and irritate the lips.

5. Smoking Causes Dry Lips Also

Smoking is not only dangerous for health but also harmful to lip and mouth skin. It attaches a black stain on the lips and also teeth. So, the lips look dark or black. If you are a chain smoker, it might cause dark/black spots on your lips that look really unimpressive. The prolonged smoking may lead your lip skin to cancer though it is a rare case.
In winter, you should keep stayed away from smoking. It will be wiser if you quit smoking forever. Then, you will get back your natural lips. Or use a lip balm every time after smoking. And rub a slice of lemon over your lips. It removes the dark cigarette hue instantly.

6. Control Your Room Temperature

While you are protecting your lips from the outdoor dry air or elements, be careful about your indoor air situation. The heating system of room at winter makes the air drier that the indoor. That’s why; the room temperature is more harmful to the lip skin. Keep a humidifier temperature 30-40%. It keeps the inside air ideally moist. Don’t use the humidifier more that 50% because excessive humidity can cause bacteria and other microorganisms. You should also use a humidifier at your office.  Then you can be protected both at home and office.

7. Protect Your Lips during Sleeping

The night-time is the best duration to let your lips stayed moisturizing all day long in cold months. Apply a lip balm thickly on your lips. The lips suck the balm throughout the night that basically keeps alive the pout for hours at daytime. Or you can leave some pure honey on the lips. Honey is a natural humectant and antioxidant to moisturize, protect and make the lips healthy.

8. Don’t Lick/Peel/Bite the Lips

It is not only your bad habit, I think everybody lick or bite their dry lips. Biting or peeling the skin makes the lips nastier. Even, the lips get bleeding for biting or peeling. So, never do it. Licking also dries out the lips more. The saliva of the tongue takes out the moisturizer from the lips. That’s why; lips go behind chapped fast. Keep a pocket lip balm always with you. Whenever you feel a little dryness, just apply it.
Don’t breathe from your mouth. It creates an airflow around your lips and mouth that makes your lips more cracking. Try to breathe through your nose. Or taking the breath from your mouth is a problem or disease, talk to your doctor. Or apply a 100% natural moisturizer on the lips during the night.

9. Lip Balm, Best Cure for Dry Lips in Winter

In buying a lip balm, you should consider the long lasting effect, extra moisturizing power, natural ingredients, and SPF sunblock. Otherwise, don’t buy it. The following natural ingredients are mostly considerable:

• Jojoba Oil
• Vitamin E
• Glycerin
• Vitamin A and D
• Coconut oil
• Beeswax
• Shea Butter
• Almond Oil
• Aloe Vera

Make a natural lip balm your best friend in dry air. Coat your lips with the balm always. After getting up and washing your face at morning, apply your favorite lip balm. After every eating or drinking, use that. Keep a balm in your purse, on your reading or computer table, so that whenever your lips have a slight tightness, you can find your balm easily.

10. Cover Your Lips from the Elements

When you are going outside, cover your lips with a scarf or a ski mask so that the harsh air might not reach your mouth or lips. Also, bring an SPF-rich lip balm with you.  Some winter coat hoods have Velcro or button snaps that secure the bottom lines of your face. Wearing this coat, ensure the warmer of your face, protect the face and lips from the harsh wind and hold moisturizer inside.

11. Treat Dry Lips Naturally in Winter

To have sweet-smiling, luscious-looking, self-esteem, soft and smooth lips; the golden secret is to use home remedies. Natural ingredients not only make the lips soft but also they protect and repair the lips from inside. Besides, home remedies are less costly and available in your kitchen. You can use the below home remedies to get dry-free lips throughout the bitter season.

• Lemon Juice
• Honey
• Green Tea Bags
• Sugar Scrub
• Rose Water and Glycerin
• Jojoba Oil
• Ghee
• Cucumber
• Rose Water and Honey
• Glycerin and Honey

12. Check out Allergens to Your Lips

Check out the products whether they create allergic reactions to your lips. Lipstick having propyl gallate or phenyl salicylate (salol) develops allergens. The toothpaste containing guaiazulene may cause allergy. Some foods, such as- figs or food dyes can contain allergens. The intake of excessive of vitamin B12 also dries out the lips when you come to the touch of cobalt. Or any kind of products, cosmetics, lipsticks or foods; if create an allergic reaction to your lips, you should switch them.

13. Petroleum Jelly

If your lips are more chapped and couldn’t be solved the painful state, you should use Pure Petroleum Jelly. It heals the lips fast and protects also.

14. Control Your Caffeine Intake

Winter is a nice time to drink a few cups of extra coffee or your favorite hot tea or other hot beverages. These hot items may soothe you from the coldness for a while, but it finally dehydrates your lip skin. Instead of taking hot caffeine, drink an herbal tea or a decaf version. It is helpful for health and also hydrates the skin.

15. Avoid Some Ingredients

If your lips are dry, you should avoid the products containing the following ingredients:

• Camphor
• Flavoring Agent
• Dyes
• Eucalyptus
• Cinnamate
• Menthol
• Oxybenzone

The above substances might have your lip balm, toothpaste, lipstick, mouthwash or other products. To be sure, just get a stop of using them for two weeks, if you feel better lips; then stop using them in winter or switch to another new product.

16. Emergent Tips for Severe Painful Chapped lips

Severe cracking and bleeding are not uncommon to the lips in winter. It is also very painful to smile or talk and looks very nasty. To heal the cracked lips fast, rub your lips with a warm rag several times a day. It cleanses the spots. Then hold a cold compress on your lips to stop bleeding. Lastly, apply coconut oil. Repeat this treatment several times a day. It will heal your bleeding or cracked lips quickly. Don’t blot the bleeding lips, because it cannot heal them fast.

That’s all the tips to take care of your dry lips in winter. Follow these tips and your dry lips will be okay. If nothing can cure your lips, talk to your dermatologist in a short time, because untreated chapping lips may be threatened by a bigger skin problem.

DIY Masks

DIY masks- The most trending thing these days. Homemade masks, to get a supple and hydrating skin, should be a part of your daily skincare regime. It can  keep you away from the risk of having any side effects of the skin care products. So, head to your kitchen and pick any natural moisturizing agent depending on your skin type. Use DIY mask twice a week for effective results.

Dry and blistering skin is a common grievance in the winters. Although there are many creams and moisturizers on the market to fight against dry skin. You should go in for various natural home remedies that are not only economical but also quite effective in nourishing and hydrating dry skin and maintaining its suppleness.

Some of the natural and effective home remedies for combating dry winter skin are as follows:

1. Olive Oil







Olive oil comprises of numerous antioxidants and healthy fatty acids which are noble for the skin. It soothes and conditions dry skin all over the body.
Procedure: 
a) Apply a little amount of olive oil on your hands, legs and other areas with dry skin and massage lightly about an hour before taking a bath. Apply a light moisturizer after a shower to retain the moisture in the skin.

b) Exfoliate your skin naturally by mixing two tablespoons of olive oil, four tablespoons of brown sugar, and one tablespoon of honey. Polish this homemade scrub on your dry skin using circular motions for few minutes and apply a light moisturizer later after a shower.

2. Milk Cream


The most common and economical method of exfoliating dry skin. The gentle nature of milk cream also helps to preserve the skin’s mild pH levels. Milk cream acts as an excellent moisturizer.

Procedure:

a) Rub your hands and legs with the mixture of one teaspoon of milk, two teaspoons of milk cream and few drops of lemon juice, allow it to stay for a while and then take a shower. You may do it regularly instead of using soaps.

b)  Make a thick paste by adding adequate milk cream to three to four tablespoons of gram flour (besan) and apply the paste on face, hands, and legs. Leave it on for 15 minutes and then rinse it off with lukewarm water. You may use this paste twice a week for a beautiful and glowing skin in winter.

3. Milk


Milk’s anti-inflammatory and soothing properties significantly helps getting rid of dry and itchy skin. Additionally, the lactic acid present in milk exfoliates dead skin cells and increases the skin’s capability to retain moisture.

Procedure:

a) Soak a washcloth in cold milk and put the cloth on your dry skin for five to seven minutes. Gently wash off the milk with another cloth soaked in lukewarm water. This way this natural moisturizer will remain on your skin. You may practice this every day.

b) Add a few drops of rose water to four tablespoons of milk. Rub this solution all over your body. Leave it on for 10 minutes and wash your body with cold water. It will leave your skin moisturized and fragrant.

4. Honey


Honey is ranked as one of the top natural moisturizers which is overloaded with antioxidants and antimicrobial properties, and help retain moisture to make skin extra soft and smooth. Honey also has many vital vitamins and minerals that help improves skin health and quality.

Procedure:

a) To relish well-moisturized skin scrub honey all over body and allow it to stay for five to 10 minutes before taking a bath or shower. It helps in toning the skin.

5. Curd


Curd being an excellent skin-hydrating agent, its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties help soothe dry and itchy skin. Plus, its lactic acid content helps get rid of germs or bacteria which causes dryness or itchiness.

Procedure:

a) Apply fresh curd on your hands, face, and legs by gently massaging it into your skin. Leave it on for around 10 minutes and then take a shower. The mild exfoliating act of curd will eradicate dry skin and leave skin refreshed and hydrated.

b) Make a mixture of half cup of curd with three tablespoons of mashed or blended papaya. Stir it in a blender with few drops each of honey and lemon juice. Smear it on the skin and leave it on for 10 minutes. Then wash it off with cold water. It is advisable to do this method once a week.

6. Coconut Oil


Coconut oil is truly a good friend of skin. It treats dry skin as it has high amounts of fatty acids that make up for any loss of moisture incurred.

Procedure:

a) Profusely smear warm coconut oil all over the body before sleeping every night. Repeat this daily to mark skin soft and smooth.

b) Spread on a little coconut oil on dry skin after your bath daily. Coconut oil is more readily absorbed when the skin is warm and elastic after a shower. Repeat daily for smoother skin.

7. Oatmeal


Oatmeal is not only healthy to eat but is also healthy for your skin. The high protein content in oatmeal leaves a defensive barrier on the skin, which avoids water loss and helps maintain moisture. Adding on to it, it has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that are good for the complete health of the skin.

Procedure:

a) Mix one cup of plain oatmeal into bathtub/bucket filled with warm water. Add a few drops of lavender oil or any essential body oil. Soak in the bath water for 15 to 30 minutes. Enjoy this soothing bath once a week.

b) Make a DIY face mask by mixing one mashed ripe banana with one cup of grounded oatmeal with a little bit of lukewarm milk. Smear this smooth mixture on dry skin and leave it on for 10 to 15 minutes. Wash it off with lukewarm water.

8. Almond Oil

Almond is in itself an excellent source of vitamin E and hence its oil is considered to be the best for soothing and lubricating the dry skin. Its antioxidant property is also beneficial for skin’s health. Being non-greasy in nature, it is easily immersed in the skin.

Procedure:

a) Massage your body gently with the warm almond oil half an hour before taking a shower. After shower apply some light moisturizer when skin is still wet.

b) To enjoy healthier skin with sound sleep it is advised to take a glass of warm milk mixed with one teaspoon of almond oil before going to bed.

Note: People allergic to almonds must not use the almond oil remedies.

9. Aloe Vera


Aloe Vera has gained the loudest applaud for being the best, cheapest and easiest way of dealing with skin problems. With its calming, antiseptic and antifungal properties, it helps combat dry, irritated skin and prevents peeling of skin.

Procedure: Cut open a fresh aloe vera leaf and remove the entire gel out of it. Apply the gel to the dry skin. Let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes then rinse it off with lukewarm water. This simple mixture will moisturize your skin and form a defensive layer which will keep skin free from impurities.

7 Basic Face Care Tips You Need to Follow In Winter

Any extreme weather condition–be it hot or cold can damage your skin. However, winter is particularly hard as the dry wind, and chilly weather can make your skin dry up leading to flakes. And a regular skincare regimen would hardly help in such times. Your skin needs more than just pampering to keep it healthy and glowing.
And to help you achieve that, here are a few simple winter care tips for your face that you can follow to avoid excessive dryness and dead looking skin.

Face Care in Winter–7 Basic Tips

 1. Cleansing, The First Step To Healthy Skin

No matter which product you use, cleansing is a must-follow first step in skincare. This has to be followed through the year irrespective of the season. In winters, you can limit the number of times you wash your face from 3 times to 2 times and alternatively cleanse your face with cold milk and cotton ball to prevent excessive dryness.

2. Scrub, Exfoliation Is The Key

Exfoliating your skin with a scrub is a given in any season. But you may want to minimize the number of times you scrub your face in winters as daily scrubbing might cause abrasion and turn your skin drier. It helps to use a mild exfoliating scrub and make it a weekly affair.
You can enhance your scrubbing experience by making your own scrub using natural ingredients available at your home. Here’s a sample fruit scrub for you.

• 2 tbsp. mashed ripe banana
• 2 tbsp. of a mashed apple
• 1 tbsp. honey
• 2 dollops of your Mild scrub.

Mix all the ingredients and gently scrub your face for 2 minutes in circular motions. Washing it off with warm water and pat dry with a soft towel.

3. Toning To Tighten The Skin

First things first, always use a mild toner that suits your skin rather than one loaded with chemicals. A harsh toner could disturb your skin’s PH levels. Toning will remove the post-cleansing residual dirt from your face. Toning not only tightens your skin but also prepares it for the moisturizer, night serum you are about to apply to the face.

4. Moisturizing For Soothing

Moisturising is not just essential for very dry and flaky skin, but regular skin type must indulge in this routine too. If you are not for chemical-laden products, then you could go for any of the natural moisturizers— almond oil or extra virgin olive oil. Alternatively, you can mix the oil with your normal cold cream or lotion too. Gently massage this into your skin till it absorbs and leave it on.

5. Essential Face Packs For Winter

There are hundreds of ingredients in your kitchen which can help keep your facial skin soft and supple in the harsh cold season. Here are a few face packs that you can make use of.

• Avocado Face Pack

Avocado has extreme moisturizing properties, it’s good for hair as well as your face. Use mashed ripe avocado on the face for about 10-15 minutes before washing off with warm water. Apply a light moisturizer instead of a toner.

• Banana Face Mask

Mashed ripe banana is a great moisturizing agent. Take 4 to 5 tablespoons of mashed ripe banana and massage it on the face. Wash off after 10 minutes and give your face some massage with honey, go in circular motions for that extra moisturizing feel. Do so for at least 10 minutes and finish off with a toner.

• Buttermilk Pack

Use malai or fresh buttermilk with a pinch of turmeric, let it stay on the face for about 10 minutes before washing off with lukewarm water.

• Aloe Vera

Known for its incredibly moisturizing properties,  aloe vera can be used on the face as a moisturizer; It is an ideal way to relieve your face from dryness and enhance its texture.

6. Keep Yourself Hydrated

Drink plenty of water since it’s essential to keep your body and skin hydrated in the dry weather. This will also ensure your skin remains glowing.

7. Shield Your Skin From The Sun

The sun may be hiding in winters, but it still manages to peep through the clouds allowing the UVA and UVB rays to harm your skin. Thus, never give sunscreen a miss.

Guide for Keratin Treatment

Long, shiny, straight and manageable hair are every girl’s dream. Daily exposure to pollution, hair products with harmful chemicals and blow drying, all tend to damage the natural keratin of hair. Once the keratin from your hair is depleted, your hair cortex is exposed to more damage. From decades oiling and conditioning are considered the most reliable hair treatment for frizz-free and luscious hair. Not too long, around a decade ago, the world of beauty and glamor was introduced to an all new term i.e. ‘keratin hair treatment’. It has become so common today that any woman can easily have keratin treatment at home.

What is Keratin?

Keratin is a natural protein that actually is a part of our hair (nails and skin). But unsuitable atmospheric conditions and chemical based hair products destroy it. Keratin is essential for the inner (cortex) part of hair as well as for the outer (cuticle) one.

What is Keratin Treatment?

Keratin therapy itself is a chemical-based hair treatment to regain that lost elasticity and health of your hair. In other words, adding the lost keratin back in your hair, using an artificial method is called keratin treatment. It splendidly works to enliven your hair by ending all the roughness and unwanted curls. It is the best way to get rid of the daily fatigue of getting your hair straight. Once you opt for it, you have your hair straight, shiny and tangle free for about 3 to 4 months’ maximum. Though it’s not a permanent solution, but it’s the best alternative for a hair straightener.


Note: Keratin has chemicals in it. So, it would not be so simple to apply it. There are some conditions where you should not apply it without consulting some expert. Such conditions include different type of allergies and sensitive hair scalp.

How Does Keratin Treatment Work?

It’s a process that tends to bind keratin to hair. A hot flat iron is used for sealing process. The heat from ironing makes the mixture work for straightening the hair. There are other chemicals too along with keratin. Without those chemicals, keratin cannot function properly. This whole process takes about 90 minutes or so. If you have longer hair, it may take a bit longer. Once you have been through the sealing process, don’t wash your hair for about three to four days. As this whole process of locking the keratin takes time.


Note: To get the best results, make sure, the shampoo you are using does not have sodium sulfate as an ingredient.

No Makeup Makeup Glow

If you want to do a no makeup makeup look – almost nothing on the skin but lots of glow. So use very thin layer of foundation and literally massaged it in the skin.  Use cream blushes in shades of pink and coral from Tata Harper to get that glossy finish on the skin. But if you have nothing, you can just blend a bit of lipstick on your cheeks and put a little bit of lip balm to get that little glow. Or you can even use a cream highlight. If you want to keep lips in a shade of soft brown but keeping them healthy looking.  Use a lip balm on top of a liquid lipstick. A little bit of contouring, some nude eyeliner on waterline and mascara finished off the look. And for this look, it is okay if a bit of your spots / freckles show through. It’s all about making your skin looking healthy and glowing.

9 Skin and Hair Benefits of Vitamin C Serum

Benefits of Vitamin C serum for your skin and hair. Vitamin C is an important nutrient for a glowing, flawless and radiant skin. And, it is required for optimum hair growth too. So let’s read on to know more about the benefits of Vitamin C.

 

Protects your skin from sun damage

Vitamin C keeps your skin protected from the sun and its damaging effects. Vitamin C keeps your skin protected from free radicals also, which may harm your skin and make it age faster. Due to the high amounts of antioxidants, Vitamin C promotes clear and radiant skin. Hence, it is excellent for tanned skin.

Keeps the signs of aging at bay

Vitamin C serum can keep your skin forever young. Vitamin C contains a high amount of antioxidants which help to get rid of wrinkles, fine lines and other aging spots. It also prevents dryness caused due to aging. Massage your Vitamin C serum and keep it overnight to get the best results on your aging or mature skin.

 

Treats under eye circles

Vitamin C serum prevents dark circles, too. Vitamin C promotes even tone skin and also heals puffiness or eye bags around the eyes. So invest in a good Vitamin C eye serum if you’ve been dealing with dark circles.

 

Promotes younger skin

A good Vitamin C serum can promote younger and glowing skin. It fades away the signs of aging and tightens the skin too. Application of Vitamin C serum promotes collagen on the skin, thus keeping your skin younger and beautiful. It is a great skin care must-have for bright skin, too.

 

Reduces skin inflammation

Regular application of Vitamin C reduces skin inflammation easily. This serum is good for people who often wake up with inflamed or slightly red skin. Massage a few drops of Vitamin C serum at night and wake up with gorgeous skin.

Improves hair growth

Vitamin C serum is not only beneficial for skin, it is equally good for your hair also. Vitamin C contains antioxidants, which kill free radicals that cause dry, weak and brittle hair. Generally, Vitamin C deficiency may lead to dry and brittle hair. In order to use Vitamin C serum on your hair, take half a cup of yogurt and add 5-8 spoons of Vitamin C serum to it. Mix both the ingredients well and apply on your hair as a mask. Wash off with cold water.

 

Treats dandruff problem

Dandruff is generally caused after the pores get clogged. This serum helps kill the bacteria and also keeps dandruff away. Take some Vitamin C serum and apply on the scalp directly. Massage your scalp and leave the serum on overnight. Wash off with cold water. Due to the antiviral properties, Vitamin C serum can treat dandruff effectively.

 

Promotes thick hair

By improving blood circulation in the body, Vitamin C strengthens the hair and also repairs damaged hair follicles. Regular use of Vitamin C promotes younger, thicker and stronger hair. Apply some Vitamin C on your scalp, massage a little and wash it off after some time to get the best results.

 

Prevents greying of hair

Vitamin C not only treats several hair disorders but also prevents premature greying of hair. You can take Vitamin C capsules to treat this problem. Apply some Vitamin C serum directly on the roots and wrap your hair with a warm towel. Rinse off after 3 hours.

DIY Miracle Scrub for Stretch Marks

Stretch marks is one of the most common problems during pregnancy. This is my second pregnancy and I did get some stretch marks during my first pregnancy. I tried a lot of creams and lotions but nothing worked on them. This time around I started using this scrub and it has prevented new marks from forming. So let’s begin this DIY to know more.

You need:

⦁ Instant coffee powder
⦁ Vitamin E oil
⦁ Coconut oil
⦁ An empty bowl
⦁ A spoon
⦁ Some water

Procedure:

Step one:
Take about one to two teaspoons full of instant coffee powder in an empty bowl.


Step two:
Then, add a little water and make a thick paste out of it.


Step three:
Add about 10 drops of Vitamin E oil.

Step four:
Add 10 drops of coconut oil.
 
Step five:
Mix the ingredients well and make a nice paste.


Swatch:

How to use:

Apply this mixture on your stretch marks every day before you take a bath. Just apply it on damp skin, massage it well and then have your bath.

Benefits of coffee:

• It is a rich source of antioxidants
• It protects against harmful sun rays
• It makes the skin smooth and bright
• It enhances circulation

Benefits of coconut oil:

• It removes blackheads
• It acts as a moisturiser
• It makes the skin soft
• Prevents and reduces stretch marks

 

Benefits of Vitamin E oil:

• It helps in repairing the skin
• It prevents the skin from cracking
• Prevents and reduces stretch marks
• Prevents skin aging

6 Smart Tricks To Make Your Face Glow In Minutes For The Next Party

We all love naturally radiant and glowing skin, but we also know that with our kind of lifestyle, environmental conditions and dietary preferences, this is not always easy to achieve. To get our skin to glow from within, it often takes a skincare routine overhaul and months of patience, but what if you found out that there are actually many tips and tricks that can get your skin to glow within minutes? You would try them, wouldn’t you? The best part is that all of these tips and tricks that give you a facial glow within minutes are completely safe and 100% natural.

Let’s take a look at these smart tricks that can make your face glow within a matter of minutes.

1. Steam inhalation: One of the easiest and fastest tricks to getting that gorgeous facial glow is to inhale some steam. Not only in this good for your system, it opens up your pores and works like magic to give you glowing skin. Cleanse your face, take in some facial steam and follow it up with a few drops of your favourite facial oil for a magical glow.

2. Raw milk cream: Take a little bit of cream from raw milk. Make sure that it is cool and has been refrigerated. Gently massage it into your cleansed skin and wash it off with cool water after a few minutes to get a naturally radiant look.

3.  Multani mitti ice pack: Prepare a concoction of multani mitti (fuller’s earth), turmeric powder, sandalwood powder and rose water. Make sure the consistency of it is runny. Pour this mixture into an ice tray and store in the freezer. Every time you need an instant glow and pick-me-up, take one of these ice cubes and massage it on your face. Your skin will glow like never before.

4.  Baking soda scrub: Add a pinch of baking soda to your favourite cleanser or moisturizer and massage it into your skin for a couple of minutes. Baking soda is an excellent exfoliator and brightens your skin within minutes. Wash this off with plain, cool water for glowing skin. 

5.  Tomato cleanse: Slice a ripe tomato and take a few minutes to gently massage it all over your cleansed skin. Tomato is rich in many vitamins and minerals that help cleanse your skin deeply and brighten it from within. You will instantly see that all signs of dullness are lifted and your skin looks amazingly clean and refreshed.

6.  Honey and coconut oil: For incredibly soft, supple, moisturized and radiant skin, use a combination of honey and coconut oil and massage it into your skin. Leave it on for a few minutes and wash it off with plain water. This will make your face glow instantly.

7.  Egg white and banana: Raw egg whites and ripe banana are two ingredients that are hailed for their wonderful skin brightening effects. To get beautiful, glowing skin, prepare a face pack with raw egg white and ripe banana and apply it to your skin. Leave it on for five minutes and wash it off to get super cleansed and amazingly radiant skin.